3-Cent Silver 3cS Type 1, 1851-1853 PR [Type]

Name: 3-Cent Silver 3cS Type 1, 1851-1853 PR [Type]
SKU: 73780

Greysheet & CPG® Values

Melt Value (Silver): 0.0193 oz +13.77%

$0.73

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3-Cent Silver 3cS Type 1, 1851-1853 PR [Type]

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The Type 1 Proof Three Cent Silver was the first year and design for its series and denomination. Produced in order to have coinage between 1C and 5C, making it easier to exchange foreign coins (legal tender at the time) into U.S. currency. This type lasted from 1851 to 1852 and were produced with only 75% silver. Both dates are extreme rarities.

Obverse Description

A six-pointed star with a harp in the center is surrounded by UNITED STATES OF AMERICA on the periphery and the date positioned at the bottom. For the type I issues (1851-53) there is no frame line around the star.

Reverse Description

The roman numeral III is centered in the design ensconced in a large, bejeweled letter C surrounded by 13 stars on the periphery.

Book Reference

Designer: James B. Longacre. Weight: 0.80 gram. Composition: .750 silver, .250 copper. Diameter: 14 mm. Edge: Plain. Mints: Philadelphia, New Orleans.

Key to Collecting: Today, examples are plentiful in circulated grades. On the numismatic market, Mint State coins are seen with frequency, although gems are scarce. The only mintmark in the series, the 1851-O, is of this type. Most high-grade 1851-O trimes are very attractive. Such a coin might be of interest if you are looking for something special to include in your type set.

Aspects of Striking and Appearance: Often lacking certain details of the shield. Check this feature carefully and also the strength of the III. Finding a truly sharp coin will take some doing.

Proof Coins: A few were made, but today they are unobtainable for all intents and purposes. Some prooflike circulation strikes have been expertized as “Proof.” Caveat emptor.